Dubai 7s adds HSBC SVNS 3 as 28-team event expands to 70 matches
By Business & Property Desk2 min read
Organisers of the Emirates Dubai 7s have announced that the 2026 edition will for the first time include the HSBC SVNS 3 competition, alongside the established HSBC SVNS tournament. The expanded event is scheduled from 27 to 29 November at The Sevens Stadium.
Mathew Tait, Festival Director of the Emirates Dubai 7s, described the addition as a significant milestone for the UAE’s premier rugby gathering. “The addition of HSBC SVNS 3 to this year’s Emirates Dubai 7s for the first time is a particularly significant milestone for the event and its overall evolution,” Tait said.
28 teams, 70 matches across two tiers
The weekend will feature 28 teams from around the world competing across both HSBC SVNS and HSBC SVNS 3, with a total of 70 matches. “This will be the world’s biggest international sevens tournament,” Tait added. “This gives us a sense of enormous pride and firmly reinforces our commitment to growing the game. We can’t wait for fans to experience what promises to be a truly special weekend.”
HSBC SVNS 3 is the third tier of rugby sevens, offering emerging nations a pathway to progress to HSBC SVNS 2 and then to HSBC SVNS, with Olympic qualification at stake.
Platform for emerging nations
Sam Pinder, World Rugby Sevens World Series General Manager, said the inclusion of SVNS 3 in Dubai provides a platform for nations to compete at a high level. “Bringing HSBC SVNS 3 together with HSBC SVNS provides a fantastic platform to showcase the depth of talent across the game, from teams looking to take the next step to the world’s best competing at the highest level,” Pinder said. “With promotion to HSBC SVNS 2 at stake, there is plenty to play for, and we’re looking forward to an exciting weekend of rugby sevens in Dubai.”
The Dubai Sevens rugby tournament, founded in 1970, is the longest-running international sporting event in the Middle East.
Local pride and history
Mohammed Alzaabi, Secretary General of the UAE Rugby Federation, welcomed the addition. “We are proud to be part of Emirates Dubai 7s, an iconic event that continues to strengthen Dubai’s position as a leading global destination for rugby,” said Alzaabi. “We look forward to another exceptional edition of Emirates Dubai 7s and to welcoming teams and fans from around the world.”
Last year, New Zealand completed a grand double by winning both the men’s and women’s titles in the main event.
